You recognize that you have a clutter problem. It might be throughout your home, at your business, or just one area. Wherever it resides, it is impacting you. Clutter can impact your health, your relationships, your job, or even your finances.
The accumulation of clutter does not happen overnight, and it will not be conquered overnight. But it certainly can be reduced and even controlled following these basic strategies:
· Start with the end in mind. Instead of looking at the mess as it is now, focus on how you want it to look. Think about how you will feel in the decluttered space. What will you now be able to do?
· Have a brainstorm session. Write down everything you want to change. Be very specific. For example, if you are in your bedroom you might see that a lot of your clutter involves clothes. Write down everything that would have to happen to make the clothes clutter go away. You might list - make space in the closet for clothes or have a clothes hamper by the closet.
· Work the plan you have developed. If you are looking at a large area like a complete bedroom, break down large tasks into small steps. Start with just one thing. Perhaps, plan to have the bed clear so that you can stretch out and have a good sleep.
· Develop a timeline. For the plan to work you have to devote scheduled times to complete the tasks. Schedule work times on your calendar and honor them. If something comes up and you can’t meet your commitment for that slot, reschedule it.
· Gather all your supplies before starting. This will prevent you from losing momentum once you get started.
· Celebrate your wins. Every time you complete a task acknowledge your accomplishment with a celebration. Celebrations can be large or small. It’s up to you.
· Maintain your decluttered area. Once you have decluttered an area have a maintenance plan set up either daily, weekly, or monthly so that clutter does not creep back into the space.
It is possible to make your vision for a clutter-free area come true. Stay focused on one area or small space at a time until that area is finished to your satisfaction. There is no shame in asking for help if you need it.
For more details and information on how to clear clutter, purchase our book Filled Up and Overflowing and delve into chapter 6 Reducing the Clutter.
Jonda S. Beattie, Professional Organizer owner of Time Space Organization, and co-owner of Release, Repurpose, Reorganize. She is based in the Metro-Atlanta area. As presenter, award-winning author, as well as a retired special education teacher she uses her listening skills, problem solving skills, knowledge of different learning techniques, ADHD specialty, and paper management skills to help clients tackle the toughest organizational issues. Jonda does hands on organizing and virtual organizing. For more of Jonda’s tips connect with her on Facebook.